In our household, the Christmas tree is up before Thanksgiving. I know that it’s a big controversy, but we’re not ones to skimp on holiday cheer. Christmas music plays in our house months before Christmas and months after. There’s insane excitement when the tree finally gets put up, and you’d think someone died by the sadness in the air when it finally goes away. I love the warmth of Christmas, the smells of Christmas, and the books of Christmas. So without further ado, here are the Librarian’s Choice for December. May your holidays be filled with Christmas cheer, joyous blessings, and gratefulness for the One who made Christmas worth celebrating!
Ages 8-11: The Birds’ Christmas Carol
This book, though written in the late 1800s, is a perfect read on a cold Christmas Day. It has beautiful themes of love, generosity, and gentleness… but also deeper themes of sacrifice and heartache. Don’t be turned off by the title – it will make sense after the first couple pages!
Ages 12-14: Little Women:
Though not exclusively a Christmas story, this beloved tale by Louisa May Alcott will warm your heart during this Christmas season. Follow the adventures of the four March sisters as they each face their own struggles, and help each other grow and learn. It’s a coming-of-age classic with strong themes of family, faithfulness, and true love.
Ages 15+ (Classics): A Christmas Carol
Ebenezer Scrooge, the Ghost of Christmas present, and Mr Fezziwig – what’s not to love? If you’ve never read this short Christmas novel by Charles Dickens, then you’re in for a treat. I grew up watching the 1984 movie, but only read the book this fall. Dickens will have you laughing out-loud at the Ghosts, cringing at Ebenezer Scrooge’s nastiness, and mourning for Tiny Tim. Though targeted for older ages, this story would be a perfect read-aloud even for littles!
